Cough Medicine

The common cold and flu are some of the most common viral infections, which almost everyone will experience at some point. While the common cold is generally mild and causes symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, sore throat and congestion, the flu tends to be more serious. This can cause all the cold symptoms, as well as:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle weakness

However, the severity of cold and flu can vary from person to person. While some may be able to continue working with a mild cold, others may struggle to even get out of bed. Many over the counter medicines can relieve the symptoms of cold or flu. However, more severe cases may require antiviral medication.

Soothing Coughs and Colds

While there is no cure for the common cold there are things you can do at home to relieve symptoms. These include:

• Rest. Your body needs more energy than usual to fight off the illness, so help it by conserving your energy.
• Get plenty of fluids. Drink plenty of water, which can help soothe congestion. Avoid caffeinated drinks, which can actually make you more dehydrated.
• Have a hot bath or shower. The steam can help congestion, while stretching out in the bath can help aching muscles.
• Take over the counter medicine. These can include painkillers, decongestants or antihistamines, which can all soothe cold and flu symptoms.

Even if you think it is “just a cold”, it is important you take care of yourself. Otherwise your symptoms may get much worse before they get better.

Cold and flu remedies

Depending on your symptoms, there are many over the counter remedies you can take for your cold or flu. Nasal spray can help with congestion and soothe your sore nose, lozenges can help your throat while painkillers can help with head or muscle pain. However, some remedies contain paracetamol, so you should check before you take separate painkillers.

Rightdose - your personalised pharmacy, delivered.